How long will Rodri be out? Pep Guardiola confirms 'worst news' as Man City's title hopes take major hit

Rodri will miss the rest of the season after it was confirmed he suffered an ACL injury against Arsenal.

Manchester City superstar He will likely miss eight to nine months of action following checks on his knee following a dramatic 2-2 draw.

It is a hard blow for pep guardiola who will now feel his team's Premier League title hopes have been dealt a huge blow.

Here's everything we know about Rodri's season-ending injury…

What happened to Rodri?

Rodri He was substituted in the 21st minute of the 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Etihad after planting his foot in an awkward position.

As he went to attack a corner, he hit his right leg on the ground and instantly fell, clutching his knee.

He paced around the field for a few seconds before both groups of players came to his aid and doctors examined him.

The midfielder was able to get up and limp off at the time, but it is now confirmed that he suffered a serious ligament injury.

What has been said?

A few days after the incident, Man City released a statement revealing what happened.

It said: “city ​​of manchester FC can confirm that Rodri has suffered an injury to the ligaments in his right knee.

“The injury occurred during the first half of this weekend's 2-2 draw against Arsenal in the Premier League.

“The midfielder traveled to Spain to consult a specialist this week, after initial tests in Manchester.

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“Evaluation continues to determine the full extent of the injury and the expected prognosis.

“Everyone at the Club wishes him a speedy recovery.”

And now, after those evaluations, Rodri and Manchester City have received the worst possible news…

In his pre-Newcastle press conference, Guardiola said: “This season is over. It's the worst news, but it is what it is.

“We don't have a similar player, but all the players together can replace Rodri. We have to do it as a team and find a way.”

Guardiola was then asked if his team could manage without Rodri.

He said: “If we don't win it's because we miss Rodri.

“We are stronger with him, but he will be out for eight to nine months.

“He had surgery this morning, anterior cruciate ligament and some meniscus.

“Next season it will be here.”

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What are Manchester City's options now?

This will be a blow for Manchester City, who are seeking an unprecedented fifth consecutive Premier League title.

Rodri has been instrumental to City's success in recent seasons, particularly in their triple campaign in 2022/23.

He scored the winning goal in the Champions League final against Inter Milan and produced consistent and dominant displays in midfield.

City did not lose a single Premier League game they played last season, and all three of their defeats came without him.

Guardiola will now have to turn to other midfielders, including Matthew Kovacic, Ilkay Gundogan and Matheus Nunes as cover.

It was Kovacic who replaced Rodri against Arsenal, however, City conceded two goals after that change.

And both Gundogan and Nunes tend to play more advanced roles.

Juan Piedras He could potentially move into a midfield role, as he did impressively at times during the treble-winning season.

But whatever is decided, given Rodri's importance in midfield, fans will fear a drop in success as the Euro 2024 The winner is out.